Gareth Samples, Chief Executive of The Property Franchise Group (TPFG), has been awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award at this year’s Kerfuffle Conference and Awards, held on 10 July 2025.
The honour recognises his outstanding contribution to the UK property sector over a career spanning more than 30 years.
The accolade marks a significant milestone for one of the industry’s most respected figures, whose leadership and vision have helped shape the evolution of UK estate agency through both traditional and digital channels.
Samples began his property career as a trainee estate agent with Connells in Northamptonshire, before joining LSL Property Services.
DECADES AT THE TOP
Over two decades at the business, he rose through the ranks to become Managing Director of Your Move, overseeing what was then the largest single estate agency brand in the UK. His remit spanned franchise operations, financial services, lettings and brand development.
After leaving LSL in 2012, Samples turned his focus to the digital transformation of the sector, becoming Managing Director, then consultant, at marketing automation platform BriefYourMarket.
He also played a role in a number of other ventures, including in asset management, electrical goods and lettings-related tech.
THE PROPERTY FRANCHISE GROUP
Following the retirement of Ian Wilson, Samples was appointed CEO of TPFG, where he has led the business through a period of sustained expansion.
The group, which includes brands such as Martin & Co, Hunters, Ellis & Co and Parkers, has continued to grow its franchise footprint under his strategic leadership and is now regarded as one of the largest multi-brand players in the UK property market.
TEAM EFFORT
Accepting the award, Samples said: “I am incredibly humbled and honoured to receive this Lifetime Achievement Award from Kerfuffle. When I started as a young agent in Derby back in 1992, I could never have imagined the journey the industry would take me on.
“I have worked with incredible people throughout my career who have helped me achieve all of the highlights.
“This award isn’t just for me; it’s a testament to those people and the incredible teams I’ve had the privilege to work with throughout my career, from my formative years at Your Move to the exceptional people driving our success today at The Property Franchise Group.”
And he adds: “The property sector is constantly evolving and I’m as excited today about its future and the opportunities ahead as I was on day one.”
